Latest FinTech & Blockchain News
Canadian Fintech Investment Steadied in 2025
Investment in Canadian fintech moderated to US$2.4 billion across 113 deals in 2025 after prior highs, per KPMG's Pulse of Fintech report. Sectors like AI, machine learning, and digital assets led activity, with expectations of growth in 2026 due to new stablecoin regulations.
Challenger banks and scalable platforms are attracting investor interest.
Global Fintech Investments Rebound to $116 Billion in 2025
The global fintech sector saw a recovery with total investments reaching $116 billion in 2025, according to KPMG analysis. This rebound reflects regional shifts and renewed investor confidence.
Focus areas include AI and digital assets amid maturing markets.
Canada's Stablecoin Regime Boosts 2026 Investor Interest
Canada's new stablecoin regulations in 2026 are expected to drive significant uptick in digital asset investments, providing clarity on issuance and reserves. This aligns with global standards, enabling blockchain payments and tokenized assets.
U.S. GENIUS Act also supported crypto fintech investments.
9% of Banks Plan Tokenized Deposits in 2026
Among banks, 9% plan to invest in or implement tokenized deposits in 2026, with 57% discussing at board level, per Cornerstone’s report. Tokenization enables lag-free on-blockchain money movement, seen as inevitable in 3-5 years.
Credit unions show 5% planning implementation.
Banks and Credit Unions Eye Stablecoins Heavily
5% of banks plan stablecoin investments in 2026, with 71% at senior discussions; only 24% not exploring. Credit unions: 8% implementing, 63% discussed.
Beyond crypto trading, stablecoins handled $2 trillion in real payments in 2025.
Ripple Acquires Rail for $200 Million to Bolster Stablecoins
Ripple’s US$200 million acquisition of Rail strengthens its stablecoin payments platform. This move enhances enterprise-grade digital asset solutions amid regulatory progress.
Experts anticipate broader adoption in 2026.
OwlTing Launches OwlPay Cash for $230B US Remittance Market
On February 17, 2026, OwlTing launched OwlPay Cash, a blockchain-based retail remittance app targeting the $230 billion US outbound market. It introduces efficient cross-border payments via fintech innovation.
This targets underserved remittance needs.
OLB Group Prices $3 Million Private Placement
OLB Group, a fintech providing payment processing and digital asset solutions, announced a $3 million private placement at $1.05 per share, closing around February 19, 2026. Includes 2.857 million shares and warrants for 3.571 million more.
Funds support omnichannel commerce and AI-driven services.
AI Fintechs Drive Canadian Investment Acceleration
AI and machine learning led Canadian fintech investments by volume in 2025, unlocking efficiencies via automation. Investors gain confidence from stronger data governance and regulations.
Financial institutions seek transformative AI solutions.
Challenger Banks Mature for 2026 Growth
Challenger banks in Canada are maturing with funding enabling innovative products and scale. Investors prioritize quality, scale, and strategic fit in fintechs.
This signals a maturing market focused on long-term value.
Tokenized Deposits: A Matter of When, Not If
Bank CEOs should not lag in tokenizing deposits, with widespread adoption projected in 3-5 years. Shevlin advises proactive moves as tokenization transforms deposits on blockchain.
Internal efficiencies will benefit customers over time.